Batavia’s Holmstad hosts 36th annual bazaar Oct. 5

Submitted by The Holmstad Residents Association

The Holmstad Retirement Community invites the community to the 36th annual bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, in the retirement community’s Town Center, at the corner of Route 31 and Fabyan Parkway in Batavia.

Kally Klose, chairwoman for the bazaar, reminisces about the origin of the quilt from her grandmother, Sarah Josephine Thompson, who was born in the early 1880s in LaSalle County. The quilt is among many collectibles for sale at “The Gallery” shop at the Holmstad Bazaar.

Klose said, “When I was about 6 or 7 years old, my family spent as many Sundays as possible visiting Grandma Sarah and Grandpa Nealy, which has given me many memories. One of which is about this quilt. I didn’t like taking a nap in the afternoon so grandma would lie down with me and tell me stories related to this quilt. I would select a colorful piece in the quilt and she would follow up with a story about the piece.

“Most often the piece was from a dress she had, with a story about the dress,” Klose said.

“Quilts were made from scraps of dresses made at home, so each had a story. I enjoyed this time so much that I often smile as I recall my grandma’s stories. They certainly are different from the stories I told my grandsons.”

A white and burgundy handmade afghan will be raffled off. It is 48 by 60 inches. The bazaar features collectibles, jewelry, crafts, bakery goods, artwork, books, plants, This ‘n’ That, plus many miscellaneous items.

The Home Store (which sells used furniture) will be open. Coffee and refreshments, plus a light lunch, will be available for purchase. The bazaar benefits several worthy causes. Admission and parking are free. For information, call (630) 879-4444.